If you’re heading to Los Cabos and love the ocean even half as much as I do, you’re in for a treat. There’s something magical about the way the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean collide here—it’s wild, it’s beautiful, and it’s full of adventure. Whether you’re more of a thrill-seeker or a mellow water wanderer, Los Cabos has something for everyone.
We’ve been lucky enough to spend some time here, and every time we get in the water, we are reminded why this place keeps calling me back. Let’s dive into five of the best water sports you absolutely have to try when you’re in Los Cabos.
1. Snorkeling
You don’t need to be a pro to fall in love with snorkeling in Los Cabos. Just a mask, a snorkel, and a little curiosity is all it takes. The best part? You can literally float over reefs filled with neon-colored fish and not even realize how much time has passed. We’ve done snorkeling all over the world, but there’s something about the calm coves here—especially at Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Bay—that feels different. Maybe it’s the way the sunlight dances on the water, or the fact that you might spot a sea turtle gliding by like it owns the place.
Pro tip: Go early in the morning when the water is at its clearest. It’s quiet, peaceful, and you’ll feel like you have the whole ocean to yourself.
2. Scuba Diving
If you’re certified (or ready to take the plunge), scuba diving in Los Cabos is unforgettable. I still remember the first time I went down near Pelican Rock, and suddenly everything around me slowed down. Schools of fish moved like choreographed dancers, a lazy sea lion came over to check us out, and at one point, I could’ve sworn I saw a moray eel smirking at me.
The Sea of Cortez is known for its biodiversity, and diving here really puts that on full display. Want something even more epic? Take a trip up to Cabo Pulmo, a national marine park and UNESCO site. It’s home to one of the oldest coral reefs in North America. The reef is massive, alive, and buzzing with marine activity—sharks, rays, big-eye jacks, you name it. It’s like an underwater city, and you’re the curious tourist trying not to freak out at how cool everything is.
3. Sport Fishing
Sport fishing might not sound as action-packed as diving with sharks, but out here, it’s serious business—and seriously fun. Los Cabos is known as the Marlin Capital of the World, and once you hook one of those beasts, you’ll understand why.
One of our clients joined a group on a half-day charter last October. He had zero experience, got sunburnt, and totally underestimated how much muscle it takes to reel in a 100+ pound fish—but he said that he loved every minute of it. The adrenaline hits when the line goes tight, and suddenly you’re in this tug-of-war with a creature you can’t even see. Also: nothing beats drinking a cold beer on a boat while waiting for the next bite.
You don’t need to be an expert or even know what you’re doing. The crews out here are amazing and will guide you through the whole thing. It’s less about catching dinner and more about the thrill of the chase.
4. Surfing
I wouldn’t call myself a surfer—but Los Cabos kind of made me want to be one. The vibes are just right, especially at spots like Acapulquito (Old Man’s Beach) and Zippers. Whether you’re a beginner standing up on a foam board for the first time, or you’re seasoned enough to hang with the locals, there’s a wave here for you.
What we love at Vacation Los Cabos about surfing in Cabo is that it’s not just about the sport—it’s a whole lifestyle. Mornings are for coffee and waxed boards. Afternoons are for beach tacos and salty hair. And the evenings? Well, they’re for watching the sunset while talking about your best ride of the day (even if it lasted five seconds).
If you’ve never surfed before, there are plenty of friendly surf schools that’ll get you started. I did one-on-one lessons and stood up within 30 minutes—not gracefully, but hey, I stood up.
5. Jet Skiing
Let’s be real—sometimes you just want to go fast. Jet skiing off Medano Beach is basically the aquatic version of renting a convertible and gunning it down the highway. It’s loud, it’s splashy, and it’s a hell of a time.
You can rent jet skis right off the beach and cruise the coastline, weaving past parasailers and banana boats like you’re in your own little action movie. One of our favorite moments was circling near El Arco, Cabo’s famous sea arch, and seeing it from the water at full speed. It’s a rush—and the perfect way to get your heart pumping between more chill activities like beach naps and margaritas.
Word to the wise: bring sunglasses with a strap and don’t try to take your phone unless it’s seriously waterproof (We learned the hard way).
Final Thoughts
What makes Los Cabos so special isn’t just the variety of water sports—it’s the fact that they’re all just better here. The water is warm, the scenery is stunning, and the energy is contagious. You don’t need to be an athlete or a daredevil. You just need to be willing to jump in and let the ocean do the rest.
So whether you’re drifting quietly through a coral reef, charging waves with a board under your feet, or gripping a fishing rod with shaky arms and high hopes—Los Cabos will deliver. And then some.
See you in the water.
